Marc Marquez Prepares for Emotional Phillip Island Farewell as MotoGP Heads to Australia

Posted : 22 October 2026

Seven-time world champion Marc Marquez expects an emotional weekend as MotoGP prepares to leave Phillip Island after nearly three decades on the championship calendar.

The Australian circuit, renowned for its stunning coastal scenery, strong winds and challenging corners, has hosted the race since 1997 and earned a special place among riders and fans.

However, following the expiry of its current contract and unsuccessful negotiations over its future, the event will move to Adelaide from 2027 under a six-year agreement.

Marquez, who has won four times at Phillip Island, described the venue as an extraordinary circuit with a distinctive layout. The Ducati rider is also approaching the weekend with championship ambitions, sitting just two points behind Aprilia's Jorge Martin in the standings.

He hopes to deliver a strong performance at a track where he has enjoyed memorable successes, despite also experiencing difficult moments, including a high-speed crash involving Johann Zarco in 2018.

The farewell weekend also carries major championship implications, with Marquez just two points behind Aprilia rival Jorge Martin.

Marco Bezzecchi remains in contention after winning the previous race in Indonesia, leaving the title battle finely balanced with five rounds remaining. Martin said he was confident his team could deliver a strong result and give Phillip Island an appropriate send-off.

Ducati teammate Francesco Bagnaia is also eager to make the most of the occasion, despite never having won at the circuit. His second- and third-place finishes in 2023 and 2022 respectively played important roles in his championship campaigns.

Meanwhile, Raul Fernandez, who claimed his maiden MotoGP victory at Phillip Island last year, said he would be emotional about leaving a venue that has delivered memorable racing across MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3.

From 2027, the Australian Grand Prix will move to a new street circuit in Adelaide under a six-year agreement, marking a significant change in the championship's Australian presence.

For riders such as Marquez, Martin and Fernandez, this weekend offers one final opportunity to create lasting memories at a circuit celebrated for its spectacular setting and demanding racing.

Marc Marquez Prepares for Emotional Phillip Island Farewell as MotoGP Heads to Australia

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